Time-dependent evolution of bearing capacity of driven piles in clays

Analysis of the time-dependent variation in the axial capacity of driven piles is difficult yet critical for geotechnical engineers. In this work, to investigate the short-term evolution of the bearing capacity of driven piles, a two-dimensional finite-element (FE) model was developed using the Abaqus program. Pile installation, soil consolidation and loading were incorporated in an integrated FE model. Changes in the excess pore pressure and the void ratio of the surrounding soil were investigated to evaluate the consolidation mechanism. The findings revealed that excess pore water pressure dissipation was the primary cause of the short-term evolution of the pile's bearing capacity. The dissipation of excess pore water pressure lowered the void ratio and increased the strength and stiffness of the surrounding soil. The effect of the permeability coefficient was also assessed. The permeability coefficient was found to affect the rate of evolution but not its magnitude. A centrifuge model test was used to verify the numerical results. The findings of this study may serve as a guide for improved design and construction of driven piles.